The excitement around MAPPA’s Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc is palpable, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This November, fans will be treated to an anime anthology series featuring eight short stories from the acclaimed creator Tatsuki Fujimoto. This follows the emotional impact of his previous film, Look Back, making it an exciting time for fans of his work.
Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26, produced by Flagship Line, will showcase eight one-shot manga stories that exemplify Fujimoto’s early creativity. These narratives—ranging from A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’ in the Schoolyard to Sisters—demonstrate the talent that led to hits like Fire Punch and Chainsaw Man.
These works were crafted during Fujimoto’s formative years, between ages 17 and 26, which reflects in their themes and storytelling style. They were eventually published in two collections titled Tatsuki Fujimoto Before Chainsaw Man 17-21 and Tatsuki Fujimoto Before Chainsaw Man 22-26 in 2021. The upcoming anime series will feature contributions from accomplished studios like P.A. Works, Zexcs, and others, further raising anticipation for its release. Here’s a quick look at the stories included:
- A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’ in the Schoolyard – A poignant tale of survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
- Sasaki Stopped a Bullet – Dive deep into the tumultuous emotions of youth.
- Love Is Blind – A whimsical sci-fi romantic comedy that explores cosmic relationships.
- Shikaku – A gripping story of love intertwined with a troubled past.
- Mermaid Rhapsody – A unique romantic narrative set underwater.
- Woke-Up-as-a-Girl Syndrome – A quest for identity that challenges societal norms.
- Nayuto of the Prophecy – A bittersweet tale of siblings bound by fate.
- Sisters – An exploration of artistic jealousy and the complexities of family ties.
Fujimoto’s thoughts on the adaptation reveal his initial hesitations but ultimately showcase his faith in the talented directors behind the project: “I was worried about adapting works from my student days, but I believe it has turned out to be a well-made work.” This insight adds a personal touch to the series, hinting at the care that has gone into bringing his stories to life.
Fans have even noted that tales like Sisters served as forerunners to the themes present in Look Back, showing how Fujimoto’s earlier works have influenced his standout projects. This gives a unique opportunity to connect past creations with current narratives in Chainsaw Man Part 2.
When can you watch the new anthology? According to Variety, the series will exclusively stream on Prime Video starting November 7, 2025. This addition, paired with the theatrical release of Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, hitting Japan on September 19 and North America on October 29, ensures a fulfilling season for anime enthusiasts.
Curious about what to expect? Here are some commonly asked questions:
What themes are explored in Tatsuki Fujimoto’s anthology series? The stories delve into survival, identity, love, and the intricacies of sibling relationships.
When is the release date for Tatsuki Fujimoto’s Chainsaw Man anthology on Prime Video? The series is set to premiere on November 7, 2025.
Will the anthology series feature the same animation style as Chainsaw Man? Each studio involved brings its own flair, so fans can expect a variety of artistic interpretations across the episodes.
Are there plans for more adaptations of Fujimoto’s works after this anthology? If successful, there’s a strong possibility for more adaptations, like Goodbye, Eri.
This anthology not only showcases Fujimoto’s earlier stories but may also reveal insights into creative choices in his ongoing projects. The anticipation is high, and if you’re a fan of anime and manga, there’s no better time to dive into Fujimoto’s compelling world. Explore more content at Moyens I/O and stay updated!